Review: Lady Gaga goes back to her electro-dance pop roots in ‘Mayhem’ album

Lady Gaga. Photo Credit: Frank Lebon.

Global pop music superstar Lady Gaga released her latest studio album “Mayhem” via Interscope Records on Friday, March 7th, and she finds herself going back to her electro-dance pop roots.

“Mayhem” opens with the midtempo and spitfire lead single “Disease,” which is slightly melodically reminiscent of “LoveGame.”

It immediately breaks into the infectious “Abracadabra,” which is pure ear candy and this journalist’s personal favorite tune from the first half of the album. (“Abracadabra” is equal in excellence to “Bad Romance” meets “Dance in the Dark”).

It is followed by “Garden of Eden,” which is crisp and vivacious, and she is not afraid to display some angst in “Perfect Celebrity.” “Vanish Into You” is a sonically and vocally potent track.

“Killah” is a nonchalant collaboration with French artist Gesaffelstein, and it’s a blend of funk, hip-hop, industrial, and techno.

“Zombieboy” is a poignant musical homage to her late friend and Canadian artist Rick Genest. “LoveDrug” has catchy hooks and beats, while she takes us back to the ’80s with the synths of the romantic “How Bad Do U Want Me,” where she showcases her resonant, crystalline vocals.

Equally noteworthy is “Don’t Call Tonight.” “Shadow of a Man” is an autobiographical tune, where she showcases her sense of triumph; moreover, this song would also be a solid choice for a future radio single.

After the 4 Non Blondes-esque “The Beast,” it closes with the blues-soaked ballad “Blady of Grass,” and on a fitting note with “Die With a Smile,” her Grammy award-winning collaboration with Bruno Mars, which won for “Pop Duo/Group Performance,” and rightfully so.

‘Mayhem’ Album Listening Party at Joanne Trattoria

Most recently, a “Mayhem” Album Listening Party took place at Joanne Trattoria, which is her family restaurant in the Upper West Side of New York, and it is owned by her father Joe Germanotta.

This event was hosted by Jupiter Genesis, and it featured live performances of “Disease” and “Million Reasons” by Lady Gaga tribute artist Tierney.

“Mayhem” is available on digital service providers by clicking here.

The Verdict

Overall, Lady Gaga shines on her latest studio offering “Mayhem,” which is compelling, euphoric, and nostalgic, all at once. She will certainly put her listeners into a time warp due to its retro ’80s and ’90s vibe.

Each song has its own identity, and she is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable; in return, Lady Gaga’s vulnerability is the listener’s reward. She manages to push the envelope in an organic and refreshing manner.

Lady Gaga proves that she is still one of the greatest vocalists, musical architects, songwriters, producers, song stylists, and storytellers of our time. This album captures Lady Gaga in all of her musical eras.

Her birth certificate may say Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, but in many ways, Lady Gaga is truly one of a kind.

This “Mayhem” album should catapult to the top of the Billboard charts, and it should have Grammy written all over it (at this time next year); moreover, it garners an A rating. Grab a bottle of wine (if you are over the age of 21), and allow “Mother Monster” to lure you in!

To learn more about Lady Gaga, check out her official website, and follow her on Instagram.